Scandinavian

Finnish Lohikeitto

A Finnish salmon soup with potatoes, leek, cream and plenty of fresh dill.

15 min
Prep
25 min
Cook
4
Servings
← All recipesTotal: 40 min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a pot and soften the leek for 4 to 5 minutes without browning.
  2. Add potatoes, stock, bay leaves and allspice. Simmer until the potatoes are almost tender.
  3. Add the salmon cubes and simmer gently for about 5 minutes, until just cooked.
  4. Stir in the cream and heat without boiling hard. Remove bay leaves and allspice.
  5. Season to taste and add a generous amount of fresh dill just before serving.

Kitchen note: Salmon thickness and cooking equipment vary. Check the thickest part for doneness and follow the food-safety guidance where you live.

Why you'll like this recipe

  • It is one of the most comforting Nordic ways to serve salmon.
  • The salmon cooks gently in the soup, which helps it stay tender.
  • Potatoes, cream and dill make it satisfying with very few ingredients.

Tips for better results

  • Use waxy potatoes so the chunks hold their shape.
  • Add the salmon only after the potatoes are nearly done.
  • Do not boil aggressively after adding the cream and fish.

What to serve with it

Serve very hot with rye bread or crispbread and extra dill.

Storage

Refrigerate promptly and reheat gently; avoid repeated boiling, which can toughen the salmon.

Common questions

What is lohikeitto?

Lohikeitto is Finnish salmon soup, typically built around salmon, potatoes, leek, cream and dill.

Can I make it without cream?

Yes. The soup will be lighter; increase the stock slightly and finish with butter and dill instead.